Retirees Flee to Find Stronger Dollar

Retirees are increasingly moving to Central and South America to retire and take advantage of economies where the dollar retains some strength.

1 minute read

February 23, 2008, 7:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg


"While precise figures aren't available, a compilation of data and anecdotal evidence suggests that aging Americans aren't only interested in buffing their tans or improving their golf swing, but are actively seeking out lower living costs in places where the much-debilitated dollar still reigns."

"'It's very limited in the States what you can choose from but in retirement havens all around the world you can stretch your dollar three times more,' said Kelly Campbell, a certified financial planner and owner of Campbell Wealth Management. 'It can be more affordable to retire abroad than in the States.'"

"That remains true even as economic concerns batter U.S. markets. Housing prices might have fallen more than 30% in once hot markets on the East and West coasts but they're still exponentially higher than prices in the developing world, said planning experts."

Friday, February 22, 2008 in The Wall Street Journal

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